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Eighteen months after its debut as a concept at the Paris show, Lexus rolled out the production-ready UX compact crossover at Geneva. Sitting on a 103.9-in. wheelbase and spanning 177 in. overall, it is the first use of the Lexus brand’s GA-C (Global Architecture-Compact) platform, and will be powered by either a new 2.0-liter four coupled to a new CVT (UX 200), or by the same motor mated to the fourth generation hybrid drive unit (UX 250h). The hybrid uses the on-board navigation system to optimize its operation by adapting to the driver’s routes and driving style.

I was somewhat surprised when looking at the window sticker for the Toyota Avalon Limited Hybrid to note that it was a 2018 model, not a 2017. The change in model years for the Avalon had slipped past unnoticed, with a new Avalon — based on the modular TNGA structure shared with the latest Prius and Camry — set to debut at the Detroit show in two weeks.

Not much has changed with the current car for 2018. In fact, I’m not sure anything has changed for 2018 other than shortening the names of the trim levels. After all, why would you make significant changes to a car that you’re about to replace? Especially when that car isn’t lagging the rest of the market in terms of refinement or equipment.

The fourth generation Toyota Prius features extensive changes to its hybrid powertrain, and is claimed to be the highest mileage non-plug-in vehicle available for sale in the U.S. Toyota expects it to generate a minimum 10% improvement in fuel economy, with the Eco model raising the fuel efficiency gains even higher.

The new 1.8-liter inline four has a thermal efficiency of 40%, an improvement made in part through the use of a large-volume exhaust gas recirculation (EGR) system as well as improvements in combustion efficiency. A redesigned air intake port improves airflow inside the combustion chamber, while friction created by the piston skirts, rotating parts and the oil pump has been reduced. In addition, the the coolant passages were redesigned to optimize internal engine temperature, and use of low-viscosity oil further reduces internal friction.